People Like Me: Alexander

Alexander

Name: Alexander
Studying: B.Sc. (Hons) Psychology and Zoology (Just Graduated!)

Background
I came to university after I finished my A-levels. Sometimes I wish I'd taken a gap year before I started, but there's always the option of taking one after University. I always wanted to do a degree, to live the student life as much as to continue learning! Psychology and zoology seemed an interesting mix to study, including both animal and human behaviour. I'm deaf, but that has not caused any problems in my degree. The staff were supportive of this, wearing radio microphones or letting me record lectures if needed.

Life at University
The second year field trip to Lundy Island was probably the highlight of my degree; we went out to the island where we designed and carried out novel experiments on animal behaviour. The exams workload of the degree can be quite challenging, although the rest of the workload during the degree has been fine. Like any degree you have to learn to prioritise your time and be aware of your deadlines. I had two tutors, one for psychology and one for zoology, and they were responsive to any problems, particularly when we had deadline clashes. I'm really interested in animal behaviour, and have really enjoyed the mammalian socio-biology and behavioural ecology courses. My final year project was on human behaviour, looking at the effect of human emotions on their mood and decision-making. Doing a joint honours you do get a bit more work than a single honours, but realistically it is two half degrees rather than two degrees (just the harder halves of each!) Psychology and zoology complement each other really well as there is a good overlap between the two subjects.

I have had an amazing time at Uni, the cliché of the best and worst times of your life is certainly true, and it doesn't half go fast. It's like test-driving the real world because you're still in a supportive environment and I've definitely learnt a few valuable life lessons along the way, (how to cook for starters!) Outside of studying I've been involved in Drama, both on the Drama Society committee and on the stage in lots of plays. I also went to the gym, socialised lots and generally lived the student life. I've learnt a lot about myself during my time at university; your time at Uni isn't just about learning your degree (for some that's a minor distraction!), it's a chance to really be yourself, explore life and have a laugh.

Future
I would like to be a clinical psychologist, possibly specialising in neuropsychology. I'm currently an assistant psychologist at Frenchay hospital, and even though I'm going in the psychology direction of my degree, there will be a lot from the biological side that's relevant to my career. Not to mention some handy facts for dinner party conversations.

Advice
I recommend the 'work hard, play hard' ethos. Try not to let the money worry you too much, and just make the most of the opportunities you have because it'll be over before you know it!